[July 02, 2014]
(Reuters) - Fast-food
titans McDonald's, Taco Bell and KFC are conquering the
globe, but they are losing to the likes of In-N-Out
Burger, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Chick-fil-A in the
United States, according to Consumer Reports' latest
fast-food survey.

The survey, released on Wednesday, ranked regional chain
In-N-Out-Burger the industry's best hamburger chain, based on food
quality, value and service. Rubio's Fresh Mexican Grill was the No.
1 Mexican chain, followed by Chipotle, while Chick-fil-A ranked
highest among chicken chains.

The results track with sales results at many of the major fast-food
chains, which are struggling to find the right recipe to woo younger
U.S. diners who increasingly are seeking fresher, healthier food.

"More and more, food quality - not just low price - is emerging as a
deciding-factor for many Americans," said Tod Marks, senior projects
editor for Consumer Reports.

In-N-Out Burger, The Habit Burger Grill and Culver's. McDonald's
Corp <MCD.N>, the world's largest chain but a laggard when it comes
to taste, finished behind 20 others, including Jack in the Box Inc <JACK.O>,
Wendy's Co <WEN.O> and Burger King Worldwide Inc <BKW.N>.

Chick-fil-A, which has stirred fiery debate with its anti-gay
marriage stance, also led in service and clean surroundings.

Del Taco got first place for "more for your money".

Privately held Subway, whose pitch man Jared Fogle lost more than
200 lbs on a diet of the privately held sandwich seller's food, was
No. 1 for healthful choices, followed by Jason's Deli and Panera
Bread Co.

When it comes to unhealthy "foods to fear," Consumer Reports called
out Firehouse Subs' large Sweet Thai Chili Pork Sub that clocked in
at 1,541 calories, 95 grams of fat and 3,458 milligrams of sodium.

U.S. dietary guidelines recommend individuals consume no more than
2,000 calories, 65 grams of fat and 2,300 milligrams of sodium
daily.